Fit for a King

   

Usually when my schedule says I'm going to some parts of town, I can deduce a rough estimate of the property value (more or less expensive than the house I live in). I knew this house was going to be something special, but nothing could have prepared me for my first glance around the corner. Utter astonishment. I drove up celebrating the good fortune of passing my favorite bakery (and indulging in the sticky decadence of an almond croissant), only to discover my even better fortune of getting to spend my afternoon photographing this estate. I'm unsure if I could really consider this to be a "home" for it was at least to the standard of a palace in my eyes. Poshly Immaculate. Tastefully decorated. Extraordinary. 

The interior photos are all HDR files created with minimal processing. The exterior photo is taken with an elevated tripod (making HDR impossible because of significant movement).

River Views

Imagine having that many windows in the back of your house. This lot sits on the top of a cliff that looks over... wait for it... the Potomac River. Not everyone gets to see the river from a place like this. Most of the properties along the banks [cliffs] are diplomat housing, and they often turn people away (even if you get a flat while driving by the front of their property and you need to stop to change your tire - ask my brother about that one). While it still has quite the backyard space, a short walk will take you to the rocky ledge, where you can look out over the river. It's stunning. I happened to be there at sunset to prepare for my shoot, and I got to watch the sky morph from light, to twilight, to dark from this unmatched vantage point. Here are a few images from my iPhone's camera showing the view:

This image is taken towards the northeast. 

This image is taken towards the west (and in this case, the sunset).

And this is the view looking straight down over the edge of the cliff. 

A truly gorgeous property. Apparently, the property is under contract and the buyers are planning on demolishing the current house and building a new, two story (EVEN better views, if that's possible) home in it's place. Maybe one day I'll get to see that house... here's to hoping.

Bruce and Margot, Married!

 What a fabulous adventure! Bruce and Margot are two amazing people who are passionate about life and family. They decided to tie the knot in the most intimate way - on a yacht, at sunset with only immediate family (they were the only ones who could fit on the boat!). The scene was spectacular; sunset on board a glorious antique yacht, Selina II (http://www.sailselina.com), with only the sounds of the wind and waves. I feel blessed to have been a part of such a special day! Here are some of my favorite shots from today! 

Tim and Kristin, Married!

 

What a fabulous wedding (and birthday for the groom)! Despite record breaking temperatures, the ceremony was BEAUTIFUL and we all truly had a fantastic night. Kristin was stunning, and Tim was as handsom as ever. I was just a guest at this wedding, but of course, I brought my camera and snapped away. The ceremony took place at the Lamberton Conservatory in Rochester, NY. The reception was an amazing dinner held at Valicia's Ristorante. Afterwards, there was a casual bonfire gathering at Kristin's parent's house where we enjoyed each others company, and perfect Rochester summer night.